Many boys and girls grow up dreaming of playing sports in college and the pro ranks. But of the nearly 8 million students currently participating in high school athletics in the United States, only 480,000 of them will compete at NCAA schools. And of that group, only a fraction will realize their goal of becoming a professional athlete.

The NCAA receives most of its annual revenue from two sources. That money is distributed in more than a dozen ways – almost all of which directly support NCAA schools, conferences and nearly half a million student-athletes.

We are a member-led, higher education association that appreciates the impact a college degree can have in transforming a life. NCAA employees come to work every day believing in their ability to make a difference.

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“Today’s historic change helps balance two of the NCAA’s primary values – higher education and the academic value of athletics competition," said University of Minnesota President Eric Kaler, board chair. "The new revenue distribution plan continues the Association’s tradition of devoting resources to its principles, including promoting student-athlete well-being and now, academic achievement. This decision emphasizes our commitment to college sports as an important part of higher education.”